Mirapex

What is Mirapex and why is it prescribed?
Although it is not a cure, Mirapex eases the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
Parkinson's disease results from a shortage of the chemical messenger dopamine
in certain areas of the brain. Mirapex is believed to work by boosting the
action of whatever dopamine is available. The drug can be used with other
Parkinson's medications such as Eldepryl, Sinemet, and Larodopa. If you are
taking Sinemet or Larodopa, Mirapex may allow a reduction in your dosage. And
if you suffer from the "on-off" effect that often develops during Parkinson's
therapy (symptom-free periods alternating with severe attacks), Mirapex may
extend the good "on" times and shorten your "off" periods.

How should you take Mirapex?
Follow your doctors directions for taking Mirapex. If it makes you nauseous,
try taking it with food. When discontinuing Mirapex therapy, it's best to do
it gradually. Your doctor will tell you how to taper your dose over a week's
time. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time
for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.
Do not take two doses at the same time. Store Mirapex at room temperature and
protect it from light.

What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Mirapex?
If Mirapex is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be
increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the
prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially
important to check with your doctor before combining Mirapex with Carbidopa/Levodopa
(Sinemet), Sedatives and tranquilizers (such as chloral hydrate, codeine products,
Dalmane, Halcion, and phenobarbital), Cimetidine (Tagamet), Diltiazem (Cardizem,
Dilacor XR), Major tranquilizers (such as Compazine, Haldol, Mellaril, Navane,
Prolixin, Stelazine, and Thorazine), Metoclopramide (Reglan), Quinidine (Quinidex,
Quinaglute), Quinine, Ranitidine (Zantac), Triamterene (Dyrenium), or Verapamil
(Calan, Isoptin). Combining Mirapex with Sinemet or Larodopa sometimes triggers
twitching and jerky movements. If this happens, tell your doctor. A reduction in
your dose of Sinemet or Larodopa may solve the problem.

Are there any special warnings about Mirapex?
Mirapex can cause your blood pressure to drop when you first stand up, resulting in
symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, fainting, blackouts, and, sometimes, sweating. To
avoid or reduce these symptoms, try to stand up slowly, especially at the beginning
of treatment with Mirapex. Mirapex can cause drowsiness and may trigger hallucinations,
especially if you are over 65 or have an advanced case of Parkinson's. You may even
fall asleep, without warning and without feeling drowsy, while performing everyday
activities. Check with your doctor immediately if you find that you're getting drowsy
or falling asleep while eating, talking, or watching television. Do not drive a car
or undertake other dangerous activities until you've spoken with the doctor. Be
especially cautious when taking other drugs that cause sleepiness. If you have a
kidney condition, make sure the doctor is aware of it. You'll probably need regular
blood tests to check your kidney function, and your dosage of Mirapex may have to be
reduced. In very rare cases, Mirapex may cause muscle wasting. If you develop muscle
aches or soreness after you start Mirapex, be sure to tell your doctor. Also alert
your doctor if you notice any changes in your eyesight.

Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor.